The DVARP function in Google Sheets is a powerful statistical tool that calculates the variance of a complete population based on specified criteria from a dataset. This function is particularly useful when working with large datasets, allowing users to analyze the spread of data efficiently.

Syntax

DVARP(database, field, criteria)

• database: The range of cells that contains the dataset.
• field: The specific column label or number that points to the data for which you want to calculate variance.
• criteria: The range that specifies the conditions for filtering the data.

Example #1

DVARP(A1:C10, "Score", E1:E2)

This function returns the variance of scores from the dataset in the range A1:C10, restricting the calculation to only those entries that meet the criteria defined in E1:E2. Example Result: 15.36

Example #2

DVARP(F1:F50, 1, G1:G2)

Here, the function calculates the variance of the entire population in the range F1:F50, focusing solely on the first column (as specified by the number 1) based on the criteria defined in G1:G2. Example Result: 22.75

Example #3

DVARP(D1:D100, "Height", H1:H2)

This call computes the variance for the ‘Height’ field in the dataset from D1:D100, applying filters from H1:H2. Example Result: 9.54

Error handling

• DIV/0!: This error occurs if there are no matching records based on the criteria specified.
• VALUE!: This indicates an issue with the data types provided in the field or criteria parameters.
• REF!: This error appears if the database range is invalid or if the specified field does not exist in the database.

Conclusion

The DVARP function serves as a vital quantitative tool in Google Sheets, enabling users to derive the variance of a complete dataset efficiently. By understanding its parameters and applications, users can make more informed analyses and decisions based on their data.